puppy gastropexy


For large dogs, particularly deep-chested large dogs, your veterinarian may recommend a special procedure called a gastropexy. Gastropexies prevent a condition called gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), sometimes called bloat. With GDV, the stomach bloats with gas and/or fluid (gastric dilatation) and then twists on itself (volvulus), preventing gas and fluid from escaping. The twisting action can cut off or significantly reduce blood supply to the stomach and sometimes the spleen. With enough bloating, the stomach can put pressure on the major vessels in the abdomen, affecting blood flow back to the heart. GDV is a surgical emergency and is fatal without treatment.

Gastropexies prevent GDV by holding the stomach in place so that it can’t twist on itself. The veterinarian uses sutures to tack the stomach to the right side of the dog’s body wall to fix the stomach in position. 

Although any dog can develop GDV, the risk is increased in deep-chested, large-breed dogs. Great Danes are the GDV “poster child,” with around 40% of them developing GDV in their lifetime if they don’t have a gastropexy. A great Dane with a gastropexy is around 30 times less likely to experience GDV than one without the procedure. 

Body size and type are the most important risk factors for GDV, but other contributing issues include:

  • An anxious or hyperactive demeanor
  • Exercise after eating a large meal
  • Illnesses that decrease intestinal motion

A gastropexy can be performed at the same time as a spay or neuter procedure. Your dog’s post-surgical recommendations will be similar to those for their spay and neuter:

  • Restrict exercise for 10-14 days at a minimum, including no running or jumping
  • Keep the incision clean and dry
    Have your dog wear a cone-shaped e-collar to prevent licking at the incision
  • Use pain medications as described

Learn more about gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) in dogs.